Washington March 16. 1817 Dear Sir I return you the papers relating to the claims of the district QrMr General, & the four deputies, appointed by authority from me, while I acted in the dept. of war in Jany. 1815. I will recollect, the measures that were in contemplation, at that memorable & highly interesting epoch, & the confidence reposed, & the extensive powers given you, to carry them into effect, from the incentive of which, had the war continued, I am satisfied, the happiest consequences would have resulted. my letters to you, and particularly that of Febry the 4th. 1815. give a just idea of the nature & extent of this power alluded to. In the settlement of old accounts, general principles are necessarily regarded. On any question of fact, there never can be a difference [2] of opinion between you and me; still [inserted: as] the incidents of that epoch, involved my own conduct in many instances, when prompt & bold measures were indespensible, it is desirable, from motives of delicacy, that I should interpose as little as possible, to decide questions connected with it, It will give me pleasures to confer with you on this subject, whenever you will have the goodness to call on me. with sincere regard I am dear sir yours Jas Monroe [docket:] From Mr Monroe 16 March 1817 - Original Letter, And Confidential Communication from the War Department 1813 to 1815 Inclusive [docket #2:] From Mr Monroe 16 March 1817